50 New Citizens Naturalized in Utica

On June 12, 2025, 50 new citizens were naturalized at the Federal Courthouse in Utica. Over half of these were clients of The Center, which offers citizenship services through a grant from the New York State Office for New Americans (ONA). Citizenship Coordinator Kim Jastremski and ONA Opportunity Center Program Coordinator Dona Kishimoto are both DOJ-accredited and can help clients prepare their N400 Applications for Certificate of Naturalization, as well as provide guidance throughout the naturalization process.

Judge Anthony Brindisi presided over the ceremony. Department of Homeland Security officer Theresa Robinson administered the Oath of Allegiance to the 50 new citizens from 24 different countries. The new citizens applied for naturalization 6-8 months ago, passed a criminal background check, were tested on their knowledge of United States history and civics, as well as their English reading, speaking, and writing skills. The Center offers free citizenship classes on Wednesdays at 10:00 am, in which students can prepare for the naturalization interview and gain the knowledge they need to pass the test.

"The naturalization ceremony is the culmination of a long process, beginning at least 5 years prior, when a person becomes a lawful permanent resident and receives their green card," said Jastremski. "The path to citizenship is only complete when a person takes the Oath of Allegiance. It's a joyous celebration, attended by friends and family. We're very proud of our clients and everyone who achieves the goal of becoming an American citizen." 

For information about The Center's citizenship services, contact Kim Jastremski at 315-801-5548.